Echinocactus grusonii is a low-maintenance flowering cactus native to parts of Mexico.
It was prevalent in the region of Hidalgo until the 1990s with the construction of the Zimapan Dam. Unfortunately, it is now an endangered species in the wild.
This cactus plant can grow to form a sizeable spherical globe up to 40″ inches. The cactus has sharp ribs that are straight, long, or slightly curved.
After about 20 years, the cactus flowers, but the blooms are small and relatively insignificant to the plant’s unique appearance.
The Echinocactus grusonii is often referred to as the Golden Barrel cactus, Hedgehog cactus, or Mother-in-law’s cushion due to its spiny appearance.
The Hedgehog Cactus can be grown outdoors, in planters, in a large succulent garden, or indoors.
Echinocactus grusonii, or Hedgehog plant, has received the famous Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society in the United Kingdom.
Some of the common names of Echinocactus Grusonii are:
- Golden barrel cactus
- Golden ball
- Hedgehog cactus
- Mother-in-law’s cushion
- Mother-in-law’s armchair
Quick Facts On Echinocactus Grusonii
- Family: Cactaceae
- Light: Full sun or part shade
- Temperature: 50° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Moderate watering during the summer
- Fertilizer: Cactus fertilizer twice a month in June and July
- Propagation: Seed
- Common Problems: Mealybugs, plant rot
Echinocactus Grusonii Care
What Does The Hedgehog Cactus Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The Echinocactus grusonii plant looks different as a young plant but turns into a sizeable spherical-like globe as it matures.
Juvenile plants have a knobbly appearance, but mature plants can have up to 35 prominent ribs.
The hedgehog cactus also has yellow or white spiky spines that can be long, straight, or even slightly curved.
The mature plant often grows to a height of 3 ½’ feet.
When Does The Hedgehog Cactus Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The Echinocactus grusonii plant does flower, but only after it matures, after about 20 years.
It flowers during the summer when warm weather encourages the small white or yellow flowers to bloom.
While small, the blooms of the Hedgehog cactus are beautiful in contrast to the green cactus mounds in the desert landscape.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Echinocactus grusonii plants prefer a sunny and bright location with warm temperatures of about 50° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can also handle part shade, especially in the afternoon.
The plant does well indoors or out as long as it is exposed to suitable temperatures and light.
Because the Hedgehog cactus isn’t cold hardy, it’s best to keep this plant in a container if you live in a climate with cold winters. Then, when the temperatures start falling, you can bring the plant indoors.
Otherwise, you can plant it in the ground for year-round enjoyment if you live in a temperate area.
If the hedgehog cactus is exposed to cooler temperatures and more shade when young, it may change its growth shape to more of a pillar instead of the usual sphere.
If you live in a colder climate, it’s a good idea to keep it in a pot so you can bring it indoors when the temperature begins to fall. Or you can keep it as a houseplant year-round if it has access to sufficient light.
How And When To Water And Fertilize The Hedgehog Cactus?
The Echinocactus grusonii plant has moderate watering needs during the growing season (spring and summer) but little demand in the fall.
During the spring and summer, water your hedgehog cactus only when the top layer of the soil is dry.
This cactus is drought tolerant, so it is better to underwater than overwater it.
Overwatering your Echinocactus plant can cause various issues, mostly root or plant rot.
Your Echinocactus grusonii plant will thrive monthly with a cactus fertilizer application during the growing season.
The only reason not to fertilize is if you recently repotted your plant.
However, if your hedgehog cactus is in a flowerbed, you can add compost to the soil around your plant to boost nutrients.
The plant does not need fertilizer during the fall or winter.
What Is The Best Soil For Echinocactus Grusonii, And When Should You Transplant?
If you are planting your hedgehog cactus in the ground, you can add cactus soil to supplement your flowerbed soil.
In addition, you can add compost to increase your soil’s nutrients.
You can use a standard cactus mix if you keep your plant as a houseplant or a potted plant.
Repotting is a significant stressor for the Echinocactus grusonii, so unless it is outgrowing its container, it’s best to leave it alone.
So, if you notice roots emerging from the pot’s drainage holes, you probably need to repot it. Otherwise, there is no need.
If you need to repot, choose a container slightly larger than its current one, as too large of a pot can encourage root rot.
Does Echinocactus Grusonii Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
One of the reasons why your Hedgehog cactus is so easy to take care of is because it doesn’t require any maintenance or pruning.
The only reason you may want to remove any part of the plant is if you notice any damaged roots while repotting.
How To Propagate Hedgehog Cactus?
Propagating your Hedgehog cactus is not as easy as other plants because you can’t propagate via stem cuttings or division.
In addition, it takes years for the plant to seed, meaning that you can’t reproduce your plant quickly.
However, when you do have seeds, you can propagate them using the following steps:
- Prepare a small pot with cactus soil.
- Moisten the soil.
- Place the seeds on top and lightly press them, but do not cover them with soil.
- Cover the small container with plastic wrap or a glass jar.
- Remove the jar or plastic wrap for a few minutes daily to allow air to reach the seeds.
- Keep the soil moist.
Between 3 to 5 days, your seeds should germinate. Once the seedlings have reached about 2″ inches, you can transfer them into their pots.
Echinocactus Grusonii Pests And Diseases
Echinocactus Grusonii is very popular because it is easy to maintain and not susceptible to many diseases or pests.
Most problems with the plant are due to overwatering, which can cause plant or root rot.
Suggested Golden Barrel Cactus Uses
Echinocactus Grusonii, also known as Golden Barrel Cactus or Mother-in-law’s Cushion plant, is an excellent choice for any xeriscape or succulent garden.
Planting groups of this plant can create a dramatic effect with the stunning yellow globes.
Most gardeners plant this cactus with other like-minded succulents, so they have the same light, temperature, and water requirements.
While the plant does well outdoors, it can be equally interesting indoors as a houseplant.
However, be cautious of the spines if you have young children or curious pets.